Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni Muriuki has said 25 counties have been identified as areas at elevated risk of Ebola as Kenya strengthens surveillance and preparedness measures against the disease.
According to Muthoni, 12 counties have been classified as very high risk while 13 others fall under the high-risk category.
The very high-risk counties are: Mombasa, Uasin Gishu, Busia, Kisumu, Bungoma, Trans Nzoia, Siaya, West Pokot, Turkana, Homa Bay, Migori and Nairobi.
The high-risk counties are: Vihiga, Kakamega, Nakuru, Kericho, Nandi, Kiambu, Machakos, Makueni, Kilifi, Taita Taveta, Isiolo, Elgeyo Marakwet and Garissa.
Muthoni said the classification is based on factors such as transport links, population movement, border activities and the role of the counties as major commercial and transit hubs. As a result, health authorities have stepped up surveillance and preparedness measures in the affected areas to ensure any suspected case is detected and contained quickly.
She said the move forms part of the government's broader strategy to guard against potential Ebola infections linked to outbreaks reported within the region. Surveillance teams have been activated, response systems strengthened and healthcare workers sensitized on disease detection and management.
Despite the heightened alert, Muthoni said Kenya has not recorded any confirmed Ebola case. She urged residents in the affected counties to remain vigilant, follow public health advisories and seek medical attention if they experience symptoms associated with the disease.
The identification of the 25 counties, she said is aimed at enhancing preparedness and ensuring the country can respond swiftly should the risk of Ebola increase.